Social Security, officially called the Old-Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance program, provides financial benefits to senior citizens, low-income individuals and people with disabilities. Beneficiaries receive a monthly payment on a specified schedule, and that schedule can change depending on the benefits you receive, how long you've been receiving them and whether you receive more than one benefit or not.
If you're looking into Social Security benefits for the first time, you probably have a lot of questions. This cheat sheet aims to get you to the answer of your most common questions for Social Security, Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and more.
For more, don't miss the latest expert predictions for the 2025 COLA increase and four ways you could lose your Social Security benefits.
When will I get my Social Security check?
When you receive your monthly Social Security check depends on which specific benefit you're receiving. Social Security and Social Security Disability Insurance share the same schedule, but if you're receiving both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income you'll receive your benefits on a different date than most. Beneficiaries who had been receiving Social Security prior to May 1997 also receive their payments on a different date than most.
No matter which benefit you receive, we have the answers. Below are dedicated articles that we update either weekly or monthly with the latest information on each Social Security benefit payment schedule.
2024 Social Security Payment Schedule
2024 Social Security Disability Insurance Payment Schedule
2024 Supplemental Security Income Payment Schedule
How do I apply for Social Security benefits?
Applying for Social Security benefits isn't nearly as difficult as you might think it is. It just takes some patience and gathering all the right information you'll need to properly fill out your application. You can also apply over the phone or in person if that's more convenient for you. Find out how to apply with one of these guides.
How to Apply for Social Security Benefits
How to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits
How to Apply for Supplemental Security Income
Can I Receive Supplemental Security Income if I'm not a US Citizen?
Social Security Benefits for Children: Who's Eligible And How to Apply
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families: How to Apply for TANF in Your State
What should I know about Social Security if I'm not retiring soon?
You don't have to be retired to begin receiving Social Security benefits. If you've paid into the Social Security system for at least 10 years, you may be eligible to begin receiving benefits at the age of 62. However, doing so will mean you get the smallest benefit amount. On the other hand, if you wait until you're 70 years old, you will receive the maximum benefit.
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The Truth About Social Security: We Have to Plan for the Unpredictable
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How is Medicare related to Social Security?
Medicare is a health insurance program for people aged 65 or older and for some people with disabilities. It's broken up into four parts, allowing for greater flexibility for enrollees, and encompasses the costs of health care and prescription drugs. Even if you don't plan on applying for Medicare anytime soon, getting the basics down would be beneficial. For instance, if you don't apply at the appropriate time, you could receive a life-long penalty.
Changes to Medicare Are Coming in 2025: Here's What You Can Expect
You Might Not Have to Enroll in Medicare When You Turn 65
For more, check out whether you have to pay back a Social Security overpayment.